Return Of The Gods

28 Apr 2023 - 28 Feb 2024

World Museum

From Wonder Woman to Hercules our screens are dominated by chiselled superheroes wielding their power – but who inspired these indestructible figures? This family-friendly exhibition dives into ancient Greek and Roman mythology to expose the original ancient characters of the heroes and heroines of our time.

From slaying snakes to turning men to stone, these heroes will stop at nothing to fulfil impossible challenges. Will Hera get revenge on her wayward husband Zeus? Will Hercules defy her powers? And will Demeter allow for the crops to grow back once more on Earth and Spring to blossom? Relive the myths and learn how these stories impacted the lives of mere mortals.

This boldly designed exhibition allows you to step inside the stories, as two-metre-high statues tower above you. Featuring a stunning collection of over 100 sculptures and objects, displayed together for the first time, experience the luxury of a Roman villa, before journeying into the underworld to meet Hades.

Originally collected by the 18th century antiquarian Henry Blundell of Sefton, this is the first time this significant collection of sculptures will be displayed on such a scale, with the sculptures comparable in importance and quality to the Charles Townley collection at the British Museum, and to Roman sculptures at the Vatican, Italy and other European museums.